Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery, creamy, and fruity flavors, presented in an elegant spiral shape that’s sure to impress. These cookies have a tender, flaky dough made with cream cheese, which gives them a slight tang and rich flavor. Swirled with a layer of sweet jam, these pinwheels add a beautiful pop of color to any holiday cookie platter or tea party spread. These cookies are versatile—you can use your favorite jam flavors, from raspberry and strawberry to apricot or even fig. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also visually stunning, making them an ideal treat for special occasions, holidays, or anytime you want to bake something a little extra special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies offer the perfect balance of texture and taste. The dough is tender yet sturdy enough to hold the spiral shape, and the cream cheese adds a creamy richness that makes each bite melt in your mouth. The jam filling brings a burst of fruity sweetness that complements the tang of the cream cheese. With their beautiful swirl and festive appearance, these cookies make a lovely addition to any dessert table. They’re easy to customize with different jams, and the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, these cookies freeze well, so you can prepare them ahead of time for busy holiday seasons.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Cook time: 12-15 minutes per batch
- Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 8g
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Jam Filling
- 1/4 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or your favorite flavor)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, to thicken the jam if it’s too runny)
For Dusting (Optional)
- Powdered sugar, for a decorative dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dough tough.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a flat disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the dough is firm and easy to handle.
- Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining the shape of the pinwheels and ensuring that the cookies bake evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Jam Filling
- If your jam is too runny, mix in 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar to thicken it slightly. This helps prevent the jam from oozing out during baking.
- Set the prepared jam aside.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
- Once the dough is thoroughly chilled, remove one disc from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Try to keep the edges as straight as possible, as this will help create uniform pinwheels.
- Spread a thin layer of jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the jam from spilling out when rolled.
Step 5: Roll and Chill the Dough
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, using gentle pressure to keep the roll even.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it’s firm enough to slice. This chilling step helps the pinwheels keep their shape during baking.
- Repeat the rolling, spreading, and chilling process with the second disc of dough.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough is firm, remove one log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
- Place the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional)
- For an extra festive touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar just before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Store
- Serve your Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies on a festive plate, or package them in a holiday tin for gift-giving.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 1 month; simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Ingredient Background
Each ingredient in these Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies plays a role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The cream cheese and butter form the base of the dough, creating a rich, tender texture with a slight tang. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while vanilla extract enhances the flavor. Flour provides structure, and a small amount of salt balances the sweetness. The jam filling is the highlight of the pinwheel, adding a fruity contrast to the creamy dough. Powdered sugar for dusting adds a decorative finish and a touch of extra sweetness.
Technique Tips
To make the best Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies, it’s essential to chill the dough thoroughly. Chilling prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking and ensures clean, distinct swirls. When rolling out the dough, keep it as even as possible for uniform pinwheels. Spreading a thin, even layer of jam is key to achieving a nice swirl without excessive oozing. Use a sharp knife to slice the dough log, and clean the blade between cuts if the jam becomes sticky. If the dough becomes too soft while slicing, place it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
These Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies can be presented in various festive ways. For a holiday cookie platter, arrange the cookies in a circular pattern with other holiday treats like thumbprints and gingerbread men. If giving them as a gift, place the cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper, and add a ribbon for a charming touch. For a spring or summer tea party, serve the cookies on a tiered stand alongside fruit and tea sandwiches. You can also drizzle the cookies with white chocolate for a more elegant look, or use a contrasting jam flavor for a fun visual twist.
Additional Tips for Success
For best results, ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened before starting. This will help the dough come together smoothly. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid overworking it, as this can make the cookies tough. When spreading the jam, use an offset spatula for an even layer, and leave a small border around the edges to prevent the jam from leaking out. Chilling the rolled dough logs is essential for clean slices, so don’t skip this step. If the cookies spread too much during baking, try placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes before baking the next batch.
Recipe Variations
This Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies recipe is versatile and can be adapted with different flavors and fillings:
- Nutella Pinwheel Cookies: Substitute the jam with Nutella or chocolate spread for a chocolatey twist.
- Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Cookies: Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on the dough instead of jam for a cinnamon roll-inspired flavor.
- Apricot Almond Pinwheel Cookies: Use apricot jam as the filling and add a few drops of almond extract to the dough for a nutty touch.
- Lemon Curd Pinwheel Cookies: Swap the jam with lemon curd for a tangy, citrusy variation.
- Pecan and Maple Pinwheel Cookies: Spread a thin layer of maple syrup and sprinkle with finely chopped pecans for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
Freezing and Storage
Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies store well and are also freezer-friendly. To store at room temperature, keep the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To freeze, place the unbaked dough logs in the freezer and slice and bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the bake time. Alternatively, bake the cookies, cool them completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Healthier Twist Ideas
To make these cookies a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat pastry flour for half of the all-purpose flour. This adds fiber without affecting the texture too much. You can also reduce the sugar by a couple of tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet cookie. For a lower-fat version, try using reduced-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture. If you want a naturally sweetened option, use a low-sugar or fruit-only jam. For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese in the dough.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies are ideal for a variety of events. For holiday gatherings, serve them on a festive platter with other cookies like shortbread, chocolate crinkles, and snowball cookies. These pinwheels are also great for a baby shower or bridal shower, where you can match the jam filling color to the theme. For an afternoon tea party, serve them on a tiered stand with other tea-time treats like scones and lemon bars. If hosting a cookie swap, these cookies will stand out due to their lovely spiral design and vibrant jam filling.
Special Equipment
To make these Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. An electric mixer, either hand-held or stand mixer, is helpful for creaming the butter and cream cheese to a smooth consistency. A rolling pin is essential for rolling out the dough evenly, and a sharp knife is needed to slice the dough logs into pinwheels. Parchment paper is useful for lining the baking sheet and preventing sticking. For a clean, even jam layer, an offset spatula works well. Finally, a wire cooling rack is ideal for allowing the cookies to cool completely before dusting or serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different flavors of jam?
Yes, any jam or preserves you like will work in this recipe. Raspberry, strawberry, apricot, and blackberry are all great choices.
2. How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to chill the dough logs before slicing and baking. You can also chill the sliced cookies on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before baking.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and freeze the logs. When ready to bake, slice and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
4. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, though the texture may be slightly different. Avoid using fat-free cream cheese, as it may not yield the same results.
6. How do I prevent the jam from oozing out?
Use a thick jam and avoid overfilling. Leaving a small border around the edges of the dough helps prevent leaking.
7. Can I add spices to the dough?
Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and flavor, especially with berry or apricot jam fillings.
8. How do I make the cookies uniform in size?
Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough evenly, and roll the dough out to an even thickness. When slicing, use a ruler for more precise measurements if desired.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy taste of cream cheese with the sweetness of jam in a visually stunning spiral design. These cookies are versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any special occasion or holiday gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, adding them to a cookie platter, or gifting them in holiday tins, these pinwheel cookies are sure to impress. With customizable jam flavors and a straightforward recipe, they’re a fun and delicious way to bring a bit of color and flavor to your baking. Enjoy these beautiful, melt-in-your-mouth cookies!
PrintCream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Jam Filling
- 1/4 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or your favorite flavor)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, to thicken the jam if it’s too runny)
For Dusting (Optional)
- Powdered sugar, for a decorative dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dough tough.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a flat disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the dough is firm and easy to handle.
- Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining the shape of the pinwheels and ensuring that the cookies bake evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Jam Filling
- If your jam is too runny, mix in 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar to thicken it slightly. This helps prevent the jam from oozing out during baking.
- Set the prepared jam aside.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
- Once the dough is thoroughly chilled, remove one disc from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Try to keep the edges as straight as possible, as this will help create uniform pinwheels.
- Spread a thin layer of jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the jam from spilling out when rolled.
Step 5: Roll and Chill the Dough
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, using gentle pressure to keep the roll even.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it’s firm enough to slice. This chilling step helps the pinwheels keep their shape during baking.
- Repeat the rolling, spreading, and chilling process with the second disc of dough.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough is firm, remove one log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
- Place the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional)
- For an extra festive touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar just before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Store
- Serve your Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies on a festive plate, or package them in a holiday tin for gift-giving.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 1 month; simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes + Chill time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g